Following the announcement, Vatican News featured an interview with Zollner, originally published in the Italian version of L’Osservatore Romano. When asked about the preparation phase, he explained, “Information, reflections, the spirit of prayer and penance and proposals for new concrete action needs to be shared immediately.” He explained that his presence is also a link of continuity with the work done by the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors headed by Cardinal Sean O’Malley. He emphasized that the Holy Father is concerned that the meeting be, “free, without conditions, animated by prayer and by a spirit of parresia (frankness, boldness)”.

Zollner went on to stress the importance of a spirit of unity for the meeting, citing St. Paul, “If one member suffers, all suffer together with it.” Adding, “We suffer together, and together, with the Lord’s help, we must find the cure.”